Saturday, July 25, 2009 cth12 asks

Q: What options are there for treatment of depression without drugs?

My friend has had issues of depression for years now, but she is very against the idea of taking prescription drugs to treat it. I have told her that she should seek other types of help, but she refuses that too. She says that a few years ago during high school she talked to therapists and according to her, they didn't seem to offer any advice other than telling her to exercise more and write in a journal. Those things did not work for her and now she is also against the idea of talking to anybody about her problems.

What is the best thing for her to do? I think she should try to consult different therapists, but will they just give the same advice as before? Has there even ever been much success treating depression without drugs or is that the best option?

Thanks for any help you can offer.

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Answers (2)

Merely Me, Health Guide

7/25/09 11:13am

Hi there

Well this is tough because you wonder if she would try any suggestion given to her. The process of asking and then also accepting help can be very difficult for someone who doesn't think anything will actually help. So this becomes a self fullfilling prophecy.

But in answer to your question...yes there are other ways to combat depression aside from medications but depending on the type of depression she has...and mostly her willingness to try something...these suggestions may not work either.

Here is an article by our Deborah Gray about natural treatments which you might want to read.

I have written a couple of articles already about natural alternatives because I am using this method myself. I am currently not taking any prescribed medications for my depression.

Here is one of my articles about using SAM-e or 5-HTP. I am using SAM-e myself and it is really working for me. I feel more productive...I have more energy....this substance doesn't have any side effects for me...and it takes the edges off of my depression so that I don't go sinking too low. I am able to bounce back. But this is just me...I am very cautious about recommending any treatments because what works for me might not work for someone else. And too...just because it is natural doesn't mean it doesn't carry side effects or dangers.

The use of Vitamin B-12, fish oil capsules, and folate might be something for your friend to investigate. A change to a healthier diet can't do harm and may help.

Then too...therapy can be beneficial or joining a support group.

Volunteering in some capacity can help because it gets one out of your thoughts that life is just about me.

I could go on and on but I will stop here. I give you kudos...as it isn't always easy to help a friend who may not want help. But do keep trying.

Let us know if any of these suggestions are acceptable to her.

Thank you for your question.

ME TOO

7/26/09 4:53pm

I too suffer from depression but also other medical problems so adding a lot of medication is a no go. I take an anti depression but still get panic attacks periodically. For a quick fix I use Lemon Balm Tea and cut all caffeine till it goes away. I also have increased my Calcium to 3 grams a day and on bad day even more. This works for me and is approved by my Medical doctor who only uses prescription meds as a last resort. For some people Camomile Tea helps.

believer

7/26/09 7:19pm

Talk to God. He's waiting for your call. I've been where your friend is.

I was raised to believe in God, although I never really had a relationship with Him or never really seeked Him out. I was struggling with depression and other issues. Then one day when I felt like I finally had enough (I remember the exact moment) I asked for His help. My life has changed completely.

Q: What options are there for treatment of depression without drugs?

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